Executive Highlight

Robin Cortese

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Community Account Executive, Welcome Wagon/Visit Syracuse
Business Founded: 1928
Phone: (315) 224-3357
Email: [email protected]

Address:
15 Fawn Ridge Manlius
Manlius NY 13104, US, US 13104

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How long have you been in your industry?34
Why did you choose your industry?I had been in the Telecom space for 32 years, a partner in Premier Technologies LLC., which solely represented AT&T Mobility. It was a business that found me, a mentor brought me along and I never looked back. The gravitational pull has always been working directly with the general public, frontline facing and assisting with needs. After we sold in June of this year, I did a deep dive into what I wanted to maintain and expand on. My next new endeavor came organically through lengthy conversations with two other entrepreneurs. We all agreed that at this stage we are looking to enhance community, create stay and support those who want to serve as well. With that being said, we also recognized that we are anticipating 40,000 new families moving into our area. This comes following our County Executive announcing that Micron has agreed to build a site here in Syracuse, NY. I asked those people I was meeting with, if they had ever heard of "Welcome Wagon". Crickets, and that was when I knew I was on to something. I googled the company and saw that we haven't had representation in our area for years. Shortly thereafter, I partnered with the organization. Additionally, I have accepted a role as Ambassador of Visit Syracuse. This will start on a part time basis September 4th.
Who are your typical clients?With the Welcome Wagon, my clients are B2B to C. What we are offering is a vetted, Direct Mail and Digital Marketing package that has now taken the place of the baskets of yesteryear. These pieces are given to all new movers coming into our community. Visit Syracuse, NY compliments with assistance in travel, location inquires, conferences, convention and event planning.
What do you like best about being in this industry?What I like most about being in this Industry is connecting people, seeing that they become affiliated with the people that they need in their lives. Aligned with the places and events that they enjoy and that they gain a sense immediately that they have landed themselves in the right place. We are creating community here, promoting stay. longevity with return and Love where you live vibes.
What are common problems you see?What I see and hear is negativity, with respect to our community which is unfortunate. With both sides of what I do and the sheer appreciation of where we live, I would hope people would appreciate the many opportunities and experiences we have to offer here in Central New York. However, when people venture in for visits the response while coming into contact with some people is a negative cast...weather, taxes etc. I am sure not different from what other parts of the Country encounter however it becomes everyone's responsibility to impact positive talk to create a healthy community environment. Afterall, if you want better you have to be better. That's each and every one of us.
What advice/tips do you have for clients?For clients looking to market to new movers, know that reach and touchpoints are crucial to the effectiveness of any campaign. It's imperative that the message be clear, the branding has the appropriate amount of exposure and consistency also that if there are events to attend to compliment advertising be there.We create and participate in many events that help align new people with clients, "90% of life is showing up". Marketing and Sales is life!
When is your busy season?In Central New York every season is beautiful matters and is busy for various reasons. We have a season everyone will appreciate each for their own personal reasons!
What keeps you up at night?Two months ago I would say to you "People/Employee Concerns".
How do you market yourself to grow/expand your business?Social Media, it's everything and captures such a vast market. It can be crafted in a way that speaks to your exact demographic.Also, I am very hands on so you will see me out and about within the areas that have live events for networking.
How involved are you in the community?I am involved in any way that I can be, I create events for non for-profit organizations. I donate my time with respect to the give back. I mentor those in need and none of this is about change any time soon with reduction, it's all about furthering all of this.
What is your favorite not for profit or charity?Oh boy, I have a list and it's big so here we go; Hospice of CNY & the Finger Lakes, Maureen's Hope, David's Refuge, Hope for Heather, Erin's Angels & the Carol Baldwin foundation.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of getting into this business?Be prepared to make calls, attend events, stretch yourself, show up, tap all of your resources and ask for introductions.Do not think you know everything there is to know, interview those who have been doing the work for years. Ask those people about their experiences and recommendations. Learning is constant and be prepared to craft a whole new you, reinvention is as dynamic as you choose to make it. How fun is that?
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?Painting, Yoga, Meeting with Friends & Family, Traveling, any time by the water.

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